What’s Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week – July 25, 2016

Housing Starts, Building Permits Issued Rise

Commerce Department reports on housing starts and building permits issued were released Tuesday. Housing starts rose to 1.189 million in June against expectations of 1.165 million starts and May’s downwardly revised reading of 1.135 million starts, Housing starts rose by 4.80 percent on a seasonally-adjusted annual basis. This is good news for housing markets, but analysts said that demand for homes continued to exceed available supplies.

Building permits issued also rose in June to 1.53 million as compared to May’s reading of 1.136 million permits issued.

Existing Home Sales Increase: National Association of Realtors®

Sales of previously-owned homes rose three percent year-over-year and reached their highest level since February 2007 in June. Existing home sales rose by 1.10 percent in June to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 5.57 million sales. Analysts forecasted a reading of 5.48 million sales of pre-owned homes based on May’s reading of 5.51 million sales.

Analysts said that first-time home buyers are returning to housing markets and helped boost June sales and cited changing buyer demographics that suggest a return to owner-occupant home sales. First-time buyers accounted for 33 percent of pre-owned home sales in July, which was their highest reading since 2012. First-time buyers are important to housing markets as their purchases of existing homes enable current homeowners to sell their homes to buy larger homes or to relocate.

Mortgage Rates Rise, New Jobless Claims Fall

Mortgage rates rose across the board last week according to Freddie Mac’s weekly report. Rates for a 30-year fixed rate mortgage averaged 3.45 percent, which was three basis points higher. The average rate for a 15-year fixed rate mortgage also rose three basis points to 2.75 percent; rates for a 5/1 adjustable rate mortgage averaged 2.78 percent. Discount points averaged 0.50 percent for fixed-rate mortgage and 0.40 percent for 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages.

New jobless claims sustained their streak and fell last week to 253,000 against predictions of 260,000 new claims filed and the prior week’s reading of 254,000 new claims filed. Analysts hailed declining jobless claims as a strong indicator that the economy and labor markets continue to improve. New jobless claims have remained below the key reading of 300,000 for 73 weeks. The four-week rolling average of new jobless claims fell by 1250 claims to 257,750. This reading is considered less volatile than week-to-week readings and offers evidence of steady improvements in labor markets.

What’s Ahead

Next week’s scheduled economic news includes the S&P Case-Shiller Housing Market Index, readings on new and pending home sales and the FOMC committee’s post-meeting statement on Federal Reserve monetary policy decisions. Analysts widely expect the Fed to hold firm on its current federal funds rate of 0.25 to 0.50 percent.

Weekly reports on mortgage rates and new jobless claims will be released along with a reading on consumer confidence.

1514 E Diamond Street Phoenix, AZ 85006

$549,999
4 Beds
3 Baths
1,766 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6730147
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Check out this CHARMING, VINTAGE, ADOBE, home located in the exciting North Garfield HISTORIC DISTRICT! Thanks to a large ensuite and ARIZONA ROOM addition this home is quite LARGE compared to neighboring homes (1,776 SF). Additionally this home features a fully detached casita/GUEST HOUSE with kitchenette, bathroom, and it's own HVAC unit, making it perfect to use for your favorite in-laws or to supplement the mortgage with a tenant... Step inside the main house and you will find tasteful upgrades that perfectly accentuate all of the historic charm that this home has to offer. ORIGINAL DETAILS INCLUDE; coved ceilings, wooden front door w/ hardware, mail slot, milk door, and hutch. And to top this all off, the home comes with OWNED SOLAR! AVG. electricity bill is $65/Mo!

2720 E Fremont Road Phoenix, AZ 85042

$549,999
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,548 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6756704
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located within the prestigious gated golf course community of Fairways at The Legacy, this home greets you with a charming gated courtyard entry. Inside, you'll find 5 spacious bedrooms, 4 of which are upstairs, along with a guest bedroom, a full bath, and a laundry room conveniently located on the main floor. The primary suite offers a sitting area, stunning views of South Mountain, and a large walk-in closet. Positioned on a desirable north/south lot, the backyard is perfect for gatherings, featuring a covered patio, a putting green, and an awning that reduces direct sunlight, creating a more comfortable outdoor space. Just a short 10-minute drive from downtown Phoenix, this home is ideally suited for growing and active families.

427 E Mayfield Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

$549,999
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,369 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6751714
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
You can't miss this property, It's sitting on a massive 20,000+ sq ft lot (just under 1/2 acre) with an RV gate and HOA allows RV'S up to 30 feet long parking in the back yard. There are 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. There is a huge open family room as well as a formal living room and a dining room. There is also a large open kitchen with a big island for entertaining,, new granite counters. The backyard is a blank slate waiting to become the backyard of your dreams, the options are endless and three-car garage. Improvements...All Carpet updated Jan-2022.All baseboards updated Jan -2022.The whole house was painted inside Jan-2022,,, Toilets Updated Jan-2022. Kitchen and Baths granite countertops and Cabinets painted updated Aug-2024. THE HOME WARRANTY IS INCLUDED FOR ONE YEAR.

7631 S Kenwood Lane Tempe, AZ 85284

$549,999
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,656 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765825
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
BEAUTIFULLY REMODELED! Move right into this charming home in a prime Tempe location! Providing 3 beds, 2 baths, 2-car garage, & a low-care landscape. The immaculate interior, with a spacious open layout, boasts clean lines that promote a modern feel! Enhanced by fresh neutral paint, vaulted ceilings, recessed lighting, abundant natural light, & new wood-look floors. The renewed kitchen has SS elec range & dishwasher, quartz counters, tile backsplash, white shaker cabinetry, and a waterfall peninsula w/breakfast bar. Well-appointed bedrooms & updated bathrooms! Main bedroom offers French doors to the back and a barn door that opens to the ensuite w/dual sinks & a walk-in closet. Enjoy the entertainer's backyard with two covered patios, a well, artificial turf, & a sparkling pool! Just WOW!

2537 E Carla Vista Drive Gilbert, AZ 85295

$549,999
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,791 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6758610
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This beloved home is in very popular pet friendly area! Nestled next to greenbelt, community pool & basketball court. Gorgeous home w/ 3 BDS & den which can easily convert to 4th BD. Open floorplan. Kitchen has large breakfast bar which opens into living/dining area. Newer stainless steel appliances w/ breakfast nook. Any car enthusiasts? The 3 car-garage has been upgraded with Gladiator slats hung on studs on the walls in garage for hanging tools, cabinets, etc. Separate circuits for Garage HVAC & outlets bar. Dedicated 220 for air compressor. Circuit that supports elec vehicle. Trusses for electric line for work light & to attach to air compressor w/ rubber isolates. Very sturdy. Extra 1500 SF of concrete poured for custom black steel RV gate & parking. Tuff Shed w/ electric & custom wo

6071 S Topaz Place Chandler, AZ 85249

$549,999
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,842 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6759322
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to 6071 S. Topaz Pl, a stunning 4 bedroom 2 bathroom home nestled in the sought after Sun Groves community in Chandler. This well maintained residence offers a spacious floor plan, modern upgrades, solar panels, and a peaceful neighborhood, making it the perfect family home in a prime location. Step inside to find a bright and open floor plan with high ceilings and large windows, filling the home with natural light. The expansive living area features two tone paint, plantation shutters, and gorgeous tile flooring, making it ideal for both everyday living and entertaining guests. The beautifully upgraded kitchen features granite countertops, matching appliances, a large kitchen island, and ample cabinet space. It's perfect for preparing meals and hosting gatherings with friends and family. Step outside to the beautifully landscaped backyard, which offers a covered patio, a sparkling pool, a generous gazebo, and plenty of room for outdoor relaxation or entertaining. Sun Groves is known for its family friendly atmosphere, beautifully maintained parks, and scenic surroundings. With easy access to top rated schools and nearby shopping centers, it's the ideal place to enjoy a suburban lifestyle with modern amenities! Buyers currently living in Maricopa or Pinal County ask about an ADDITIONAL $7,000 home buyer credit available on this home via the Community Promise Program. Rate Relief Rebate Program: Benefit from a 2% seller credit to reduce your mortgage payments by Approximately $584/month in year 1 and $298/month in year 2. This exclusive offer makes homeownership more affordable now, while you await potential rate decreases.

723 W Rosal Place Chandler, AZ 85225

$549,999
4 Beds
2 Baths
1,938 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6785017
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
**NEW ROOF** on this fantastic 4-bed, 2-bath home nestled on a prime corner lot! Starring a 2-car garage, RV gate, & a low-care landscape. The inviting interior features modern light fixtures, neutral paint, wood-look tile flooring throughout, and vaulted ceilings that add to the airy feel. If entertaining is on your mind, you'll love the perfectly flowing open layout paired with a fireplace in the living space! The impressive kitchen boasts black SS appliances, granite counters, glass tile backsplash, white shaker cabinets, and an island w/breakfast bar. Large main bedroom has French doors to the back, a walk-in closet, and an ensuite with dual sinks & a soaking tub. Out the back, you have a storage shed and a Pergola patio to relax while enjoying BBQ. Great location! Welcome home

2938 S 184th Lane Goodyear, AZ 85338

$549,999 - 5Br/3Ba -  for Sale in Las Brisas Phase 1, Goodyear
Open House
$549,999
5 Beds
3 Baths
2,380 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6765471
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This spacious ranch-style home sits on a generous sized lot and offers 2,380 sq/ft of living space. Designed with comfort in mind, it features two split master bedrooms - perfect for added privacy. The great room boasts an inviting atmosphere with 10' ceilings and a beautifully appointed kitchen that features quartz countertops, a large island, and a walk-in pantry. Outside, the low-maintenance backyard is shaded by mature trees and has lush turf, ideal for relaxing or entertaining. With a 3-car garage, RV gate, and RV parking, this home is perfect for those who need extra space while enjoying a peaceful setting. Additional upgrades include Low-E dual-pane windows with sunscreens and a Smart WiFi thermostat for energy efficiency!

1321 N Delmar -- Mesa, AZ 85203

$549,999 - 4Br/3Ba -  for Sale in La Mariposa Villas 6, Mesa
Open House
$549,999
4 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,507 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770242
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to this meticulously maintained single-level home in Mesa, featuring 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. As you enter, you'll find a formal living room and dining room with a charming wood-burning fireplace, perfect for cozy gatherings. The home boasts new carpet and fresh paint throughout, along with a newer roof and AC units for optimal comfort. Enjoy the convenience of garage cabinets and additional storage, along with two sheds for your outdoor needs. Step outside to a large patio, ideal for entertaining or relaxing in the sun. The property features an RV gate for added accessibility. Located in a vibrant community with a pool and lakes, and near a golf course, this home is also centrally located to shopping, dining, and easy commute to surrounding cities. Don't miss out!

18583 W Swayback Pass Pass Surprise, AZ 85387

$549,995
3 Beds
3 Baths
2,088 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6770088
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Explore this exciting fully furnished Emerald model home with a mulitgen suite ready for November move-in, on a homesite boasting driveway pavers and front/back yard landscaping. Included features: an inviting covered entry; a study in lieu of a bedroom; a spacious great room; an open dining area; a well-appointed kitchen offering quartz countertops, stainless-steel appliances, 42'' cabinets, a roomy pantry and a center island; a beautiful primary suite showcasing a generous walk-in closet and a private bath with cultured marble countertops; double laundry appliances; a covered patio, and a 3-car garage. This home also offers additional windows, ceiling fans, and full appliances and stone tile flooring in select rooms.

2121 W Sonoran Desert Drive Unit 41 Phoenix, AZ 85085

$549,995
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,567 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6648426
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Check out this beautifully crafted 2-bedroom 2.5 bath home with well-appointed interior finishes. The casual dining area is adjacent to the kitchen and provides a convenient and intimate setting. Featuring designer upgrades throughout including flooring, cabinetry, quartz countertops, and stainless-steel kitchen appliances. The community is situated just minutes away from shopping, dining, and entertainment. Call today to learn more about this stunning Quick Move In and lending incentives!

9390 Mead Lane Snowflake, AZ 85937

$549,995
6 Beds
4 Baths
2,624 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6734119
Property Type Manufactured Home
Price Type --
Wow! Check out this opportunity! 2 homes on 40 acres fully off grid and self-sustaining. The PRIMARY HOME offers 1568 square feet of living space with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Floors recently upgraded to vinyl plank throughout. Split bedroom floor plan. Kitchen features hickory cabinets, granite counter tops, large kitchen island, farm sink and NEWER gas stove. Primary home is powered by 30 solar panels which is sustained by banks of lithium batteries. In addition to a 2 car masonry garage, the primary home also features a single car Graceland garage, a 14 X 40 carport and a 10 x 20 Graceland Lofted Barn Cabin for extra storage. The GUEST HOME offers 1056 square feet of living space with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. See additional description. The living space is bright and airy and features a split bedroom floor plan and breakfast bar. Guest home is powered by 25 solar panels and sustained by banks of 12 AGM Maintenance Free batteries. 1 private well services both homes. Power is also located nearby if you would prefer that option. This property would be perfect for multi-generational housing or could use guest home as rental income! Property is all off-grid but only 10 miles from town. Best of both worlds! Option to purchase home with 80 acres and additional private well on the upper 40 acres available. See MLS #6731913